Day Six: Mile 140-178. Havasu Canyon hike.
Some notes about today’s river ride, starting at about mile 144:
The inner canyon becomes precipitous for the next 25 river miles as the strata containing the slope-forming Bright Angel Shale dips below river level. This brings the Redwall/Muav Limestone layers down to river level, and this combination produces a massive cliff. Another factor contributing to the steep inner gorge is the river’s canyon-cutting that has propagated upstream from the Toroweap Fault.
Havasu is well-known, and for good reason. Here’s a brief description of Havasu Canyon:
Havasu Creek is another popular hike for rafting groups. The canyon itself is somewhat like a green oasis sandwiched between vertical cliffs. Havasu Creek is usually a light blue color due to dissolved limestone.
A much more in-depth and beautiful description of the Canyon, the Havasupai People, and the marvelous jewels within is located here. What is most well-known are Havasu Falls, situated much further up the Canyon on the reservation of the Havasupai Indians. 
This is not a place easy to access: you cannot drive there and if on foot, must hike two days to reach the village. There is a helipad, if you’ve access to a chartered ‘copter. Once there, you can enjoy the falls. My Dad is already talking about hiking out to Havasu — maybe next year? — and I will not miss this one. Although I don’t know who we’ll be able to get to come watch the kids!?
elisa | 30-May-07 at 9:43 am | Permalink
you must go!!! the canyon is AMAZING!!! and, think of all the great pictures you could take:-)
Cold Spaghetti | 30-May-07 at 9:20 pm | Permalink
I would love to go to Havasu — my guess is that when Dad et al. gets back, it will be all they can talk about. My Dad was already starting to talk about plans to go before the rafting trip! (And yes… I’m giddy about the photography challenges! My only worry is that they won’t let me bring a tripod!)